Govt rolls back mandatory pre-installation order for Sanchar Saathi app after backlash

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has withdrawn its directive requiring smartphone makers to mandatorily pre-install the government-owned Sanchar Saathi app. The Centre’s U-turn came following widespread concerns over privacy and fears of potential surveillance. The Ministry of Communications said in a press release, “Given Sanchar Saathi’s increasing acceptance, Government has decided not to make the pre-installation mandatory for mobile manufacturers.”